2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Quantum. (110 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Quantum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Quantum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Quantum, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Quantum. (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Quantum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
